Pat Mack

Professional background:Pat joined Colorado Public Radio in January, 2011 as a producer/reporter for "Colorado Matters." Since then, he's filled the role of news host and reporter, and in 2014 was named senior editor in charge of CPR's daily news coverage. Pat has spent his career in communications and journalism. His experience includes serving as radio news director for South Dakota Public Broadcasting, where he reported several stories for National Public Radio. His broadcast background also includes reporting, producing and anchoring at KTIV-TV. Pat first began in print, serving as the editor of his college newspaper before reporting at the Sioux City Journal. His print work also has appeared in the Star Tribune of Minneapolis and the Milwaukee Journal.

Awards:Pat won a regional Murrow Award for feature reporting as well as for producing one part of a three-part series. South Dakota Public Radio won the regional Murrow for overall excellence during his two years as news director. He also has received several awards from the Iowa and South Dakota Associated Press.

Q & A

Why I became a journalist:

I was criticizing the junior high newspaper in class when the teacher told me that if I thought I could do better I should join the staff. I did, and I really enjoyed the experience. You meet some fascinating people. You witness some extraordinary events. And, may it be ever so corny, you feel like you’re making a difference.

Why I got into radio:As so many media organizations cut back, I began to appreciate even more what public radio brings to its audience. I was lucky enough to join the radio side of South Dakota Public Broadcasting and my suspicions about public radio were confirmed.

How I ended up at CPR:I worked with Matt Weesner and Ryan Warner in Sioux City, and they both had nothing but good things to say about Colorado Public Radio. They were right. I am happy to be at a place that values quality so highly.